After a long day filled with endless tasks and the hustle of family life, there’s nothing more soothing than the aroma of a comforting meal wafting through the house. That’s exactly what I love about my Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken—it brings together tender, savory chicken drizzled with a sweet and tangy glaze while allowing me to focus on all the chaos of the day. With just a few simple ingredients, you can set the stage for a delightful dinner that practically cooks itself.

This recipe isn’t just about convenience; it’s also about flavor. Picture the rich notes of soy sauce mingling with honey and garlic, creating a mouthwatering dish that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping meals for the week, this crockpot wonder fits seamlessly into your routine. Buckle up for a delicious journey that proves easy dinners don’t have to compromise on taste!

Why is Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken a Must-Try?

Simplicity at Its Finest: With minimal prep time, this recipe lets you focus on what matters most while dinner cooks itself.

Flavor Explosion: The blend of sweet honey, savory soy sauce, and aromatic garlic creates a captivating taste that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters won’t resist this scrumptious dish, making it a perfect choice for your next family meal.

Versatile: Serve it over rice, toss it in wraps, or enjoy it alongside a fresh salad—this dish fits effortlessly into any meal plan.

Time-Saving: Set it and forget it! This recipe can be prepped in minutes and left to cook for hours, freeing up your schedule.

Meal Prep Superstar: Make a double batch for leftovers that heat up beautifully—guaranteed to save you time during those busy weekday dinners.

Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken Ingredients

• To create this delicious Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken, gather these must-have ingredients for an effortless dinner that’s packed with flavor!

For the Chicken

Chicken Thighs – Juicy and tender, these thighs are perfect for absorbing the teriyaki flavors; feel free to substitute with chicken breasts for a leaner option.

For the Sauce

Soy Sauce – Provides the savory base; use tamari for a gluten-free twist.
Honey – Adds the perfect sweetness to balance the savory soy sauce; agave syrup makes a wonderful alternative if needed.
Garlic – Freshly minced or crushed, it infuses the dish with aromatic richness; garlic powder can work in a pinch.
Ginger – Adds a warm, zesty kick; feel free to swap with ground ginger for convenience.

For Added Flavor

Sesame Oil – A drizzle can enhance the overall depth of flavor; olive oil can substitute in case you’re out.
Green Onions – Chopped for garnish, they add freshness and a pop of color; you can use finely chopped chives if preferred.

Optional Add-Ins

Steamed Broccoli – Toss this in during the last hour of cooking for added nutrition; snap peas or carrots would work beautifully as well.
Sesame Seeds – Sprinkle on top before serving for a delightful crunch; chopped nuts can provide a similar effect.

How to Make Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken

Prepare Ingredients: Start by slicing your chicken thighs into uniform pieces. This helps them cook evenly and absorb the flavorful sauce better.
Combine in Crockpot: Place the chicken thighs directly into your crockpot. Pour in the soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, and ginger, ensuring everything is well coated.
Add Flavor: Drizzle sesame oil over the chicken mix for an extra layer of flavor. If you’re using green onions, reserve some for garnish later.
Cooking Time: Cover the crockpot and set it on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Let those delicious flavors meld together, creating mouthwatering chicken!
Final Steps: When cooking time is up, give everything a good stir, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed. For an added treat, toss in steamed broccoli during the last 30 minutes.
Serve Hot: Ladle the teriyaki chicken over rice or quinoa, and top with reserved green onions and sesame seeds for a delightful finish.

Optional: For extra crunch, sprinkle with chopped nuts before serving.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This allows you to enjoy the delicious teriyaki flavors throughout the week.
Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight bags or containers for up to 3 months. Be sure to label the date, so you know when to use them.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of water can help maintain moisture.
Serving Suggestions: Leftover teriyaki chicken can be repurposed in wraps, salads, or served over rice, making it a versatile option for future meals.

What to Serve with Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken?

After savoring this flavorful dish, it’s time to elevate your meal experience with some delightful sides that complete the spread.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Soft, fluffy, and mildly fragrant, it perfectly absorbs the teriyaki sauce, making every bite a blissful experience.
Fresh Garden Salad: Crisp, colorful greens topped with a light sesame dressing add a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the chicken.
Garlic Noodles: Their savory profile beautifully complements the sweet teriyaki glaze, creating a symphony of flavors your family will adore.
Roasted Broccoli: Tossed lightly with olive oil and seasoning, this veggie adds a charming contrast in texture while boosting nutritional value.
Quinoa Medley: A nutty, protein-packed substitute for rice, quinoa pairs excellently with the chicken, creating a wholesome and satisfying meal.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful mix of bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots stir-fried in soy sauce enhances the dish with more crunchy goodness.
Sesame Green Beans: Sautéed in sesame oil and topped with sesame seeds, these add a delightful touch and balance to the main dish.
Potstickers: Tender and crispy, these dumplings can serve as a fun appetizer or side, making the meal more exciting and engaging.
Chilled Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad offers a cool, crisp texture that contrasts beautifully with the warm, rich flavors of the chicken.
Iced Green Tea: A soothing beverage that complements the dish wonderfully while providing a hint of earthiness that smooths the palate.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken in advance is a game-changer for busy weeknights! You can chop the chicken and mix the sauce (soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger) up to 24 hours ahead. Simply store the chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator, ensuring everything is well-coated to prevent browning. When you’re ready to cook, just transfer the mixture into the crockpot, adding a drizzle of sesame oil. Set the cooker on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, and enjoy the same mouthwatering flavors with minimal effort at dinner time. This approach saves you valuable prep time while maintaining the dish’s delightful quality!

Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken Variations

Get ready to add your personal touch to this delightful dish!

Vegetarian: Swap chicken with firm tofu, cut into cubes, and marinated in the same teriyaki sauce for a tasty plant-based alternative. The result will be a satisfying meal everyone can enjoy.
Spicy Twist: Add chopped jalapeños or a splash of sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick that brings the heat without overwhelming the dish.
Citrus Zest: Incorporate the zest and juice of one orange or lemon to add a refreshing brightness to the flavor profile. It’s a zesty twist that enhances the overall taste.
Pineapple Delight: Add diced pineapple chunks to the crockpot for a sweet and tangy blend that perfectly complements the teriyaki sauce, enhancing the dish’s tropical vibe.
Coconut Cream: Instead of traditional soy sauce, try using coconut aminos for a gentler flavor and combine with a splash of coconut cream for a dash of richness.
Cauliflower Rice: Serve the teriyaki chicken over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice for a low-carb option that’s still full of flavor and texture.
Crunchy Toppings: Top with crushed peanuts or fried shallots before serving to introduce an irresistible crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken.
Greens Boost: Stir in spinach or kale during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a nutritional boost that adds color and richness to your plate.

Expert Tips for Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken

Even Slices: Cut chicken thighs into uniform pieces for consistent cooking and maximum flavor absorption from the teriyaki sauce.
Thick Sauces: If your sauce feels too thin at the end, thicken it with a cornstarch slurry (mix equal parts cornstarch and water) by cooking for an additional 30 minutes.
Monitor Cooking: Resist the urge to open the lid during cooking; this can impact the temperature and cooking time of your dump and go crockpot teriyaki chicken.
Adjust Sweetness: Taste the sauce before serving; if it’s too sweet, add a splash of soy sauce to balance the flavor.
Add Veggies: For added nutrition and flavor, toss in vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers during the last hour of cooking.
Meal Prep Adjustment: Make a double batch and freeze portions for an easy weeknight dinner—just reheat and serve!

Dump and Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for crockpot teriyaki chicken?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are ideal for this recipe because they remain juicy and tender even after long cooking periods, perfectly absorbing the teriyaki flavors. If you prefer a leaner option, chicken breasts can be used as well, though they might be slightly drier.

How do I store leftovers from dump and go crockpot teriyaki chicken?
After your delicious meal, make sure to store any leftovers in an airtight container. They can last up to 4 days in the fridge. This way, you can savor those delightful flavors all week long!

Can I freeze dump and go crockpot teriyaki chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the teriyaki chicken! Pour the cooled leftovers into airtight freezer bags or containers and label them with the date. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat until warmed through, ensuring you add a splash of water to keep it moist.

What should I do if the teriyaki sauce is too thin?
If your teriyaki sauce turns out too thin after cooking, don’t worry! You can thicken it by mixing equal parts cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking, which will help achieve that delightful glaze you’re after.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Very! Incorporating vegetables like steamed broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas is a fantastic way to enhance both nutrition and flavor. Just add them during the last 30-60 minutes of cooking to ensure they maintain their texture while absorbing the delicious teriyaki sauce.

Is teriyaki chicken safe for pets?
While cooking with soy sauce is safe for humans, it’s best to keep pets away from the dish. Soy sauce contains high sodium levels, which can be harmful to pets. It’s a good idea to prepare separate, pet-friendly meals if your furry friends will be enjoying dinner with you!